pregnant

Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources

Spotting & Vaginal Bleeding

What It Is Like

Spotting is very light bleeding, like what you might typically have at the beginning or end of your period. It can vary in color - pink, red, brown. Vaginal bleeding is heavier, like your period.

Why do you get spotting or vaginal bleeding?

There are many reasons for spotting or vaginal bleeding throughout your pregnancy. Some are benign, such as implantation bleeding, which occurs 8-10 days after ovulation when the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall. If you've already gotten a positive pregnancy test and you're bleeding, it's not implantation bleeding.

Bleeding can be a sign of something more serious, such as a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy, especially if it's accompanied by cramps. Bleeding occurs in 25% and only half of those end in a miscarriage, so the chances are small. If you have an ultrasound between 7 and 11 weeks and the heartbeat was strong, your chances of continuing the pregnancy are very good (90%).

Third trimester bleeding might be caused by problems with your placenta or premature labor. Placenta previa is a complication in which the placenta grows in the lowest part of the womb (uterus) and covers all or part of the cervix. Premature labor is labor that starts at less than 37 weeks.

The Content on this Site is presented in a summary fashion, and is intended to be used for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a diagnosis of any health or fitness problem, condition or disease; or a recommendation for a specific test, doctor, care provider, procedure, treatment plan, product, or course of action. Med Help International, Inc. is not a medical or healthcare provider and your use of this Site does not create a doctor / patient relationship. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. We offer this Site AS IS and without any warranties. By using this Site you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.